Lewis Moody: English Rugby Legend Reveals MND (ALS) Diagnosis

Lewis Moody Reveals ALS Diagnosis

Former England captain Lewis Moody has publicly announced his diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Motor Neuron Disease (MND). Moody, 47, retired from rugby in 2012 after a distinguished 16-year career, representing Leicester Tigers, Bath, England and the British and Irish Lions. During his career, the former flanker won almost every available trophy and participated in some of the sport’s most important matches.

Lewis Moody’s Career

Born on June 12, 1978, in Ascot, Moody started playing rugby at the age of five in Bracknell. Educated at the prestigious rugby school Oakham, where he initially played as a center and then as a fullback, he joined the Leicester Tigers academy, where he became a flanker.

He quickly stood out at Leicester, becoming the youngest player to represent the club in the league in 1996, at 18 years and 94 days old. He played 217 times for the club, the most for a flanker, before finishing his career at Bath. His England debut was in 2001 against Canada, and he was a key player in the 2003 World Cup victory. He also represented the British and Irish Lions in 2005.

Moody’s Achievements

During his time at Leicester, Moody was part of seven Premiership victories, including four consecutive titles between 1999 and 2002. The Tigers also won consecutive European titles in 2001 and 2002. With England, he won 71 caps, including two Six Nations titles, and the Grand Slam in 2003. He participated in all seven of England’s matches in the 2003 World Cup and captained England in the 2011 World Cup.

In 2007, Moody also played a prominent role in England’s run to the 2007 World Cup final, and finished his career as England captain at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, before retiring from the game a year later.

Moody’s Play Style

Nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his commitment, Moody was a fearless and relentless flanker. His passion for the game was unmatched, as demonstrated by playing with a stress fracture in his leg and recovering quickly from a serious ankle break.

Moody never shied away from any challenge, even starring in a fight on the field that made him the first English player sent off at Twickenham.

After the Withdrawal

After his retirement in March 2012, Moody founded the Lewis Moody Foundation in 2014, a charity that supports research, support, and education on brain tumors. His legacy continues with his son Dylan, a promising goalkeeper in Southampton’s under-18 team.

Understanding ALS

Motor neuron disease causes progressive muscle weakness. Messages from motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain stop reaching the muscles, leading to weakness, stiffness, and wasting. There is currently no cure for ALS, but treatments can help manage symptoms. The condition usually develops after the age of 50 and reduces life expectancy. Other rugby players such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died after being diagnosed with the disease.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The first symptoms include stiff or weak hands, problems grasping objects, weakness in legs and feet, and problems walking or climbing stairs. Other signs include spasms, cramps, and, later, problems breathing, swallowing, and speaking. Approximately half of the people with ALS experience changes in their thinking and behavior. Neurologists diagnose ALS through blood tests, nerve tests, and MRIs. Symptoms can progress at different speeds, making diagnosis difficult.

Moody’s Statements

In his social media statements, Moody expressed:

I am writing to share some difficult news. I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as motor neuron disease. This has been incredibly difficult to process and a huge shock to me and my family. I feel fit and well, and I am focusing on staying positive, living life, and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.

Lewis Moody

Moody also stated that he will continue with the work of his foundation, in addition to seeking opportunities to support a cause closer to his current situation.